Propulsion Engineer — CFD, Rockets & Flight Dynamics

Wild West Systems, Inc.; Leander (TX); On-site; USD 90,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Wild West Systems, Inc. in Leander, TX seeks a propulsion/aerodynamics engineer to translate mission requirements into propulsion designs and perform rapid analyses using hand calculations, analytical models, CFD, and simulations.

You will design and evaluate propulsion systems, model internal ballistics, optimize propellant core geometry, and collaborate with manufacturing and testing teams to bring designs to real hardware.

Qualifications

• CFD modeling (ANSYS Fluent preferred) required.
• Coding for engineering analysis (Python or MATLAB preferred).
• CAD modeling proficiency (SolidWorks, Onshape, or equivalent).
• Solid mechanical engineering fundamentals.
• Strong understanding of compressible flow, gas dynamics, and heat transfer.
• Ability to perform first-order engineering calculations quickly and accurately.
• Experience translating performance requirements into design constraints.

Responsibilities

• Translate mission requirements into propulsion and aerodynamic design parameters.
• Perform rapid engineering analysis using hand calculations, simplified models, and CFD/simulations.
• Design and evaluate propulsion systems including solid rocket motors, nozzle geometry, and propellant geometry.
• Model internal ballistics and pressure dynamics in solid propellant systems.
• Develop and run CFD simulations to validate design assumptions.
• Work closely with manufacturing, systems, and testing teams to translate designs into real hardware.
• Support flight tests and diagnose performance issues, iterating quickly.

Skills

CFD modeling

Python

MATLAB

CAD modeling

Solid mechanics

Compressible flow

Heat transfer

Education

Bachelor's degree in engineering

Master's or PhD in a related field

Tools

ANSYS Fluent

SolidWorks

Onshape

Job description

Wild West Systems, Inc. in Leander, TX seeks a propulsion/aerodynamics engineer to translate mission requirements into propulsion designs and perform rapid analyses using hand calculations, analytical models, CFD, and simulations.

You will design and evaluate propulsion systems, model internal ballistics, optimize propellant core geometry, and collaborate with manufacturing and testing teams to bring designs to real hardware.